Taiwan’s third annual Real Leather. Stay Different. Student Design Competition has completed its first round of judging after receiving 460 entries from students from 18 colleges and universities. The five judges have selected 20 finalists who will now have the opportunity to make prototypes of their designs.
The jury is composed of fashion designer Mao Tsen Chang from MAOMAO.STUDIO, leather design brand LLagut co-founder Miquel Rey, RAWPIECE brand owner Darren Huang, Black Village initiator Gina Hsu, and ELLE deputy editor-in-chief Kora Hsieh. Their diverse backgrounds allow them to offer invaluable advice and key insights to students. Entries this year highlight leather’s durability and sustainability, and its role in the circular economy.
Miquel Ray said: “Many submissions are closer to finished products. It indicates that students have put a lot of consideration into their design processes. In the prototyping stage, we hope students can experiment on various options, so their works will be presented in the optimal condition.”
The jury has selected five finalists in each of the four categories – apparel, accessories, footwear, and lifestyle craft. After the creation of the prototypes, a winner will be selected for each category and will present their work at a runway show with a live audience at the Awards Ceremony.
Real Leather. Stay Different. is co-organised by the Leather & Hide Council of America, Taiwanese International Leather Association, and Taiwan Regional Association of Tanneries. As the contest proceeds, we will introduce nominees and their works. Stay updated for the latest news!